Stories and facts

The Zekula Festival is an annual cultural celebration observed by the Bissa people, primarily located in the Upper East Region of Ghana and also in the Ejura area of the Ashanti Region.

Known also as Bisa or Bissaku Zekula, the festival is a vibrant expression of cultural pride, unity, and community development.

It brings together members of the Bissa community to celebrate their shared heritage and reconnect with their traditions in a colorful and spirited gathering.

Celebrated in various Bissa communities, the festival is notably observed in places such as Kulungugu in the Pusiga district of the Kusaug traditional area and in the town of Ejura.

These celebrations not only strengthen communal bonds but also serve to preserve and promote the cultural identity of the Bissa people.

The Zekula Festival typically features an array of traditional music, dance, and other performances that highlight the unique customs and practices of the Bissa.

These events create a lively and unifying atmosphere, reinforcing the values of solidarity and cultural continuity.

The festival is held annually, with dates often announced ahead of time to allow for broad participation. For instance, the 2025 edition of the Bissaku Zekula Festival was scheduled for April 19th at Kulungugu, also known as Kulbangu, reflecting the community's commitment to tradition and organized celebration.

Through these annual gatherings, the Bissa people not only celebrate their roots but also use the occasion as a platform for development discussions and initiatives within the community.

While the Zekula Festival is specific to the Bissa people, it is part of a broader landscape of cultural celebrations across Ghana.

The country is home to a rich diversity of festivals representing different ethnic groups, such as the Damba Festival celebrated in Northern Ghana, the Kundum Festival by the Ahanta and Nzema people in the Western Region, and the Aboakyir Festival of the Effutu people in the Central Region.

Together, these festivals reflect Ghana’s lively cultural mosaic and the deep importance of tradition and identity in national life.

Discover the diverse range of festivals celebrated across Ghana below.